Welcome to Water Heaters Now, your trusted provider of tankless on demand water heaters in the Greater Twin Cities Metropolitan Area of Minnesota. We are dedicated to bringing you the most efficient and cost-effective water heating solutions for your residential, commercial, and industrial needs.
Our tankless water heaters, also known as demand-type or instantaneous water heaters, are designed to provide hot water only when you need it. Unlike traditional storage water heaters, our tankless systems eliminate the standby energy losses, resulting in significant energy and cost savings.
With our tankless on demand water heaters, you can enjoy a constant supply of hot water without the need to wait for a storage tank to fill up. Whether you're taking a shower, washing dishes, or running multiple hot water outlets simultaneously, our tankless systems deliver the heat you need, exactly when you need it.
Experience the efficiency, convenience, and savings of our tankless on demand water heater. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.
Key Takeaways:
- Tankless on demand water heaters provide hot water only when needed, eliminating standby energy losses.
- Our tankless water heaters offer a constant supply of hot water, ensuring you never run out.
- Experience energy efficiency and cost savings with our tankless on demand water heater.
- Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Tankless water heaters are a popular choice for homeowners seeking a constant supply of hot water without the need for a storage tank. These innovative systems operate by heating water instantaneously as it flows through the unit, providing hot water on demand.
When a hot water faucet is turned on, cold water enters the tankless water heater and passes through a heat exchanger. At this point, the water is heated either by a natural gas burner or an electric element, depending on the type of unit. The heated water then flows out of the tankless water heater and reaches the hot water faucet, providing a continuous supply of hot water.
One important aspect to consider is the flow rate of tankless water heaters. Typically, these units can provide hot water at a rate of 2-5 gallons per minute. Gas-fired tankless water heaters generally have higher flow rates compared to electric ones, making them suitable for households with higher hot water demands.
Advantages Disadvantages Constant supply of hot water Flow rate limitations Energy efficientHigher upfront costSpace-saving design May require multiple units for simultaneous use Suitable for remote bathrooms or appliances
While tankless water heaters offer numerous advantages, it's important to note that they may not be suitable for all households. In some cases, a single tankless water heater may not be able to meet the hot water demands of large households with simultaneous multiple uses. However, this can be overcome by installing additional water heaters or separate units specifically for appliances that require a significant amount of hot water.
Overall, tankless water heaters provide an efficient and convenient solution for homeowners looking to have a constant supply of hot water. By understanding how these systems work and considering their flow rate limitations, households can make an informed decision about whether a tankless water heater is the right choice for their needs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZOvmn3hU3Y
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters offer several advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional storage tank water heaters. Understanding these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision when choosing a water heating system for your home.
Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters
- Energy efficient: Tankless water heaters are known for their energy efficiency. They only heat water when it is needed, reducing standby heat losses and potentially lowering operating and energy costs.
- Longer lifespan: Tankless water heaters typically have a longer life expectancy compared to storage tank water heaters. With proper maintenance, they can last for more than 20 years.
- Continuous hot water supply: Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, eliminating the need to wait for a storage tank to fill up. This ensures a constant supply of hot water whenever you need it.
- No standby heat losses: Unlike storage tank water heaters, tankless models do not have standby heat losses. This means there is no wasted energy keeping a large volume of water heated when it is not in use.
- Potential for federal tax credit: Some tankless water heaters may qualify for a federal tax credit, providing additional cost savings.
Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters
- Higher upfront cost: Tankless water heaters generally have a higher initial cost compared to storage tank water heaters. However, the potential long-term savings and energy efficiency can offset this higher upfront investment.
- Limited hot water for multiple outlets: The flow rate of tankless water heaters is typically limited, which can affect their ability to supply hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously. In large households with high hot water demand, multiple units or separate water heaters may be necessary.
- Pilot light energy consumption: Gas-fired tankless water heaters with a pilot light can still consume energy, resulting in additional operating costs. However, tankless water heaters with an intermittent ignition device are more energy efficient in this regard.
Overall, tankless water heaters offer energy efficiency, long-term savings, and a continuous supply of hot water. However, they may have a higher upfront cost and struggle to meet the hot water demand for multiple outlets simultaneously. Consider your specific needs and consult with a professional to determine if a tankless water heater is the right choice for your home.
Advantages Disadvantages Energy efficientHigher upfront costLonger lifespanLimited hot water for multiple outletsContinuous hot water supplyPilot light energy consumption No standby heat losses Potential for federal tax credit
How to Choose a Tankless Water Heater
When selecting a tankless water heater, there are several important factors to consider. These include the size of the unit, fuel type, energy efficiency, costs, installation requirements, maintenance needs, local building code requirements, safety considerations, and professional installation. To ensure the best choice for your specific needs, it is recommended to take the following steps:
- Assess Your Hot Water Demand: Determine the amount of hot water your household requires on a daily basis. This will help you determine the appropriate size and capacity of the tankless water heater.
- Evaluate Fuel Type: Consider the availability and cost of different fuel types. Tankless water heaters can be powered by natural gas, propane, or electricity. Choose the fuel type that is most cost-effective and convenient for your home.
- Analyze Energy Efficiency: Look for tankless water heaters with high energy efficiency ratings. The energy factor (EF) indicates the unit's efficiency. Higher EF ratings indicate greater energy savings.
- Estimate Costs: Consider both the upfront cost of the tankless water heater and the long-term operating costs. Compare prices from different manufacturers and factor in installation costs and potential energy savings over time.
- Check Local Building Code Requirements: Contact your local building department to determine if there are any specific regulations or codes that need to be followed for tankless water heater installation.
- Ensure Professional Installation: Hire a qualified plumbing and heating professional to install the tankless water heater. Proper installation is crucial for safety and optimal performance.
- Obtain Cost Estimates and References: Request written cost estimates from multiple contractors to compare prices and services. Check references and reviews to ensure you choose a reputable installer.
- Obtain Local Permits: Determine if a local building permit is required for the installation of the tankless water heater. Obtain the necessary permits before beginning the installation process.
- Refer to Instruction Manuals: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's instruction manual for the tankless water heater. Follow recommended maintenance guidelines to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Perform Periodic Maintenance: Regularly flush the system, clean filters, and check for any leaks or damage. Proper maintenance is essential for maximizing energy efficiency and extending the lifespan of the tankless water heater.
By considering these factors and following the recommended steps, you can choose a tankless water heater that meets your hot water needs efficiently, cost-effectively, and in compliance with local regulations.
Factor Considerations Size Determine the appropriate size based on your hot water demand. Fuel Type Choose between natural gas, propane, or electricity based on availability and cost. Energy Efficiency Look for high energy efficiency ratings (EF) to maximize energy savings. Costs Consider upfront cost, installation cost, and long-term operating costs. Installation Hire a professional for proper installation and compliance with local building codes. Maintenance Follow manufacturer's instructions for periodic maintenance to optimize performance.
Choosing the right tankless water heater requires careful consideration of various factors. By evaluating your hot water demand, analyzing fuel types and energy efficiency, estimating costs, complying with local building codes, ensuring professional installation, obtaining cost estimates and references, obtaining required permits, referring to instruction manuals, and performing periodic maintenance, you can select a tankless water heater that provides reliable hot water on-demand while maximizing energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Improving Efficiency of Tankless Water Heaters
Proper installation and periodic maintenance are key factors in improving the efficiency of tankless water heaters. When it comes to installation, it is crucial to consider various factors such as fuel type, climate, local building code requirements, and safety issues. By ensuring that the installation is done properly, you can maximize the performance and energy efficiency of your tankless water heater.
In addition to installation, regular maintenance is essential to keep your tankless water heater running efficiently. This includes tasks such as flushing the system, cleaning filters, and checking for leaks and damage. By performing these maintenance activities, you can prevent issues that may lead to decreased efficiency and potential breakdowns.
Furthermore, there are additional energy-saving options that can help lower your water heating bills. One effective option is to reduce hot water use by implementing simple practices such as taking shorter showers or using cold water for laundry. Installing energy-saving devices such as low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators can also contribute to reducing hot water consumption. These options not only improve the efficiency of your tankless water heater but also promote environmental sustainability.
Table: Energy-Saving Options for Tankless Water Heaters
Energy-Saving Option Description Reduce hot water use Implement practices like shorter showers and using cold water for laundry to decrease hot water consumption. Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators These devices help reduce the flow rate of water, resulting in lower hot water usage without compromising comfort. Insulate hot water pipes By insulating hot water pipes, you can minimize heat loss during water distribution, improving the overall efficiency of your system. Use a water heater timer A timer can be set to turn off the water heater during periods when hot water is not needed, helping to conserve energy. Consider a recirculation system A recirculation system keeps hot water readily available at the faucet, reducing the need to wait for hot water and minimizing water waste.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RFuFBI3r2c
By implementing these energy-saving options and ensuring proper installation and maintenance, you can significantly improve the efficiency of your tankless water heater. Not only will this lead to cost savings on your energy bills, but it will also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly home.
Tankless Water Heater vs Storage Tank Water Heater
When it comes to choosing between a tankless water heater and a storage tank water heater, there are several factors to consider. Let's compare these two options to help you make an informed decision.
Energy Efficiency
One of the key advantages of tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. They only heat the water as it is needed, eliminating standby heat losses. This can result in significant energy savings over time. On the other hand, storage tank water heaters continuously heat and store water, leading to energy wastage and higher utility bills.
Upfront Cost and Space-Saving
While tankless water heaters offer long-term energy savings, they generally have a higher upfront cost compared to storage tank water heaters. Additionally, tankless water heaters are space-saving options as they do not require a bulky storage tank, making them ideal for homes with limited space.
Hot Water Supply and Power Outage
Tankless water heaters provide a continuous supply of hot water on-demand, ensuring you never run out. However, their flow rate may be limited, making it challenging to meet the hot water demand for multiple outlets simultaneously. It's also important to note that tankless water heaters require electricity, so a power outage can result in no hot water. In contrast, storage tank water heaters can supply hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously but may run out of hot water if the storage tank is depleted.
Lifespan
When it comes to lifespan, tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan compared to storage tank water heaters. Tankless units can last more than 20 years, while storage tank units usually have a lifespan of 10-15 years. This longer lifespan can contribute to long-term savings and reduced maintenance costs.
Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters have gained popularity due to their energy efficiency, cost-saving potential, space-saving design, and continuous supply of hot water. However, they also come with certain limitations and higher upfront costs compared to traditional storage tank water heaters. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of tankless water heaters.
Pros of Tankless Water Heaters
- Energy Efficient: Tankless water heaters are highly energy efficient, as they only heat water as it is needed, eliminating standby heat losses associated with storage tank water heaters.
- Cost Savings: By using less energy to heat water, tankless water heaters help reduce energy bills and can lead to long-term cost savings.
- Space Saving: Tankless water heaters have a compact design and take up less space compared to bulky storage tank water heaters, making them ideal for small homes or limited spaces.
- Continuous Hot Water Supply: Tankless water heaters provide a continuous supply of hot water, ensuring that you never run out even during peak usage times.
Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
- Limited Hot Water for Multiple Outlets: Depending on the unit's flow rate, tankless water heaters may struggle to meet the hot water demand for simultaneous use in multiple outlets, especially in larger households.
- Power Outage Dependency: Tankless water heaters require electricity to operate, so a power outage can result in a loss of hot water until power is restored.
- Higher Upfront Cost: Compared to storage tank water heaters, tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost, including the purchase and installation expenses.
- Longer Lifespan: Despite the higher initial cost, tankless water heaters usually have a longer lifespan of more than 20 years, providing long-term value.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ1FSw2xVUs
In conclusion, tankless water heaters offer numerous benefits, such as energy efficiency, cost savings, space-saving design, and continuous hot water supply. However, they may have limited hot water capacity for multiple outlets, require electricity to operate, come with a higher upfront cost, and have a longer lifespan. Considering your specific needs, budget, and hot water usage patterns can help determine whether a tankless water heater is the right choice for you.
Pros and Cons of Storage Tank Water Heaters
Storage tank water heaters have their advantages and disadvantages when compared to tankless water heaters. Here, we outline the pros and cons of storage tank water heaters to help you make an informed decision:
Pros
- Lower Initial Cost: Storage tank water heaters generally have a lower upfront cost compared to tankless water heaters, making them a more budget-friendly option.
- Simple Operation: These water heaters operate in a straightforward manner, making them easy to use and understand.
- Lower Maintenance and Repair Costs: Maintenance and repair costs for storage tank water heaters are typically lower than those for tankless water heaters, resulting in potential long-term savings.
Cons
- Higher Utility Bills: Storage tank water heaters may lead to higher utility bills due to standby heat losses as the water in the tank is constantly kept hot.
- Larger Size: These water heaters take up more space compared to tankless water heaters, which can be a consideration if you have limited space in your home.
- Limited Hot Water for Multiple Outlets: Storage tank water heaters have a finite amount of hot water stored in the tank, which may be insufficient to meet the simultaneous demand for hot water from multiple outlets.
- Shorter Lifespan: The average lifespan of storage tank water heaters is shorter compared to tankless water heaters, typically lasting around 10-15 years.
While storage tank water heaters offer affordability and simplicity, they do come with the trade-offs of higher utility bills, larger size, limited hot water supply for multiple outlets, and a shorter lifespan. It's important to weigh these pros and cons against your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.
Which Water Heater Is Right for You?
Choosing the right water heater for your needs requires careful consideration of several factors. Let us guide you through the decision-making process to help you make an informed choice.
Factors to Consider
When selecting a water heater, it's essential to evaluate the following:
- Energy Efficiency: Consider the energy efficiency of different types of water heaters to determine which option will help you save on utility bills in the long run.
- Hot Water Demand: Assess your household's hot water demand to ensure that the selected water heater can meet your family's needs.
- Upfront Cost: Compare the upfront costs of different water heater models, including installation expenses, to stay within your budget.
- Space Availability: Determine whether you have sufficient space to accommodate either a tankless water heater or a storage tank water heater.
- Long-Term Savings: Consider the potential long-term savings associated with energy-efficient water heaters and factor this into your decision.
With these factors in mind, we recommend seeking professional advice from a plumbing and heating expert. They can assess your specific requirements and provide personalized recommendations based on your household's hot water needs and energy efficiency goals.
An Image of Different Water Heater Options for Visualization:
By consulting with professionals, you can ensure that you choose the water heater that is best suited for your unique circumstances, taking into account energy efficiency, hot water demand, upfront cost, space availability, and long-term savings.
Tankless Water Heater Installation and Maintenance
Installing and maintaining a tankless water heater requires the expertise of a professional plumber due to the complexity of the process. Our team of skilled plumbers is trained in the installation and maintenance of tankless water heaters to ensure optimal performance and safety. We understand the intricacies involved in the installation, including local building code requirements, permits, and compatibility with your home's plumbing system.
When it comes to maintenance, periodic upkeep is crucial to keep your tankless water heater running efficiently. Our plumbers recommend regular flushing of the system to remove any mineral deposits or sediment that may accumulate over time. Cleaning the filters is also essential to prevent clogs and ensure proper water flow. These maintenance tasks not only extend the lifespan of your tankless water heater but also help maintain its energy efficiency.
It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and warranty guidelines to avoid any damage or voiding of warranty. Our professional plumbers have the knowledge and expertise to perform installation and maintenance tasks accurately, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that your tankless water heater operates smoothly for years to come.
Table: Tankless Water Heater Installation and Maintenance Checklist
Installation Maintenance Professional plumber Periodic flushingComplexity of process Cleaning filters Permits and building codes Follow manufacturer's instructions Compatibility with plumbing system Extend lifespan and energy efficiency Optimal performance and safety
Trust our professional plumbers to handle the installation and maintenance of your tankless water heater. We prioritize your satisfaction and ensure that your tankless water heater operates efficiently and reliably. Contact us today for expert installation and maintenance services.
Estimate Costs and Efficiency of Tankless Water Heaters
When considering a tankless water heater for your home, it's important to understand the costs and efficiency associated with these systems. The initial cost of a tankless water heater can vary depending on factors such as the model, installation requirements, and additional features. It's recommended to compare prices from different manufacturers and brands to find the best option for your budget.
The efficiency of a tankless water heater is measured by its energy factor (EF), which indicates how efficiently it converts energy into hot water. Higher EF ratings indicate greater energy efficiency. To ensure you're choosing a highly efficient system, look for government-certified ratings such as Energy Star. These certifications guarantee that the water heater meets strict energy efficiency standards set by the government.
It's also worth considering the potential for federal tax credits when purchasing a tankless water heater. Some models may be eligible for tax credits, which can help offset the initial cost and provide additional savings. Be sure to check with the manufacturer or a tax professional to determine if the unit you're interested in qualifies for these incentives.
Manufacturer Model Energy Factor (EF) Price Range Rinnai RUR199i 0.96 $1,500-$2,000 Rheem RU199 0.94 $1,200-$1,600 Noritz NRC66DV 0.90 $800-$1,000 Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 0.99 $900-$1,200 Bosch Greentherm 0.95 $1,000-$1,500 Takagi T-H3-DV-N 0.95 $1,300-$1,800
Keep in mind that the installation cost of a tankless water heater can also affect the overall expense. It's recommended to hire a professional plumber with experience in installing tankless systems to ensure proper installation and optimal performance. They will be able to assess any additional requirements, such as venting or gas line upgrades, that may increase the installation cost.
Choosing the Best Propane Tankless Water Heater
Factors to Consider
When selecting a propane tankless water heater, there are several important factors to take into account. These factors include pricing, customer rating, maximum gallons per minute (GPM), heating capacity (BTUs), and Energy Star certification. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision and choose the best tankless water heater for your needs.
Comparing Options
To assist in your decision-making process, we have compiled a table comparing some of the top-rated propane tankless water heaters currently available on the market. This table includes relevant details such as pricing, customer rating, maximum GPM, heating capacity, and Energy Star certification.
Propane Tankless Water Heater Pricing Customer Rating Max GPM Heating Capacity (BTUs) Energy Star Certification Model A $X 4.5/5 7 150,000 Yes Model B $Y 4/5 8 180,000 No Model C $Z 5/5 6 120,000 Yes
Make an Informed Choice
By carefully analyzing the offered information, you can compare the pricing, customer ratings, maximum GPM, heating capacity, and Energy Star certification of different propane tankless water heaters. This will enable you to make an informed decision and select the best tankless water heater that meets your requirements.
Tankless Electric Water Heaters vs Tankless Gas Water Heaters
When considering a tankless water heater, it's important to understand the differences between electric and gas models. The energy source, installation requirements, and operating costs are key factors to consider.
Energy Source
Electric tankless water heaters rely on electricity to heat the water, while gas tankless water heaters use natural gas or propane. The availability of the energy source in your area will determine which type of tankless water heater is suitable for your needs. Gas-powered models require a gas line connection, making them an ideal choice for areas with a reliable gas supply.
Installation
The installation requirements for electric and gas tankless water heaters can differ. Electric models typically have lower installation costs, as they do not require a gas line and venting system. Gas units, on the other hand, may require professional installation to ensure proper venting and gas line connections. It's important to hire a qualified plumber to handle the installation process to ensure safety and compliance with local building codes.
Operating Costs
Operating costs can vary between electric and gas tankless water heaters. Generally, gas tankless water heaters have lower operating costs compared to electric models, especially in areas where natural gas prices are relatively low. However, it's important to consider other factors such as maintenance and repair costs when evaluating the overall cost of ownership.
Ultimately, the choice between a tankless electric water heater and a tankless gas water heater depends on your specific circumstances and needs. Factors such as energy source availability, installation requirements, and operating costs should be carefully considered. Consulting with a professional can help you make an informed decision and choose the best option for your home or business.
Tankless Electric Water Heater Tankless Gas Water Heater Energy Source Electricity Natural Gas or Propane Installation Lower installation costs, no gas line or venting required Potentially higher installation costs, gas line and venting required Op
